Taiwan's Hottest Places: Dihua Street (Dadaocheng)

Dihua Street (Dadaocheng) Night Market, a fusion of history and food in Datong District, Taipei City 🏮🍜

Dihua Street, located in Taipei's Dadaocheng district, is one of Taipei's oldest and most well-preserved commercial districts. This historic street feels like a living time machine, allowing visitors to step into a bygone era and experience the centuries-old commercial culture and charm of the old city. It's a popular shopping destination for New Year's goods, a popular check-in spot for hipsters, and a major foodie hub in Taipei, making it a must-see for Hong Kong residents. 🍃🏘️

Transportation and Location

  • Located on the northern section of Dihua Street, near Exit 1 of Daqiaotou MRT Station (Orange Line), a 5-8 minute walk away.

  • The southern section of Dihua Street is near Exit 3 of Beimen MRT Station (Green Line), about an 8-10 minute walk away.

  • There are many bus routes nearby, which are convenient for tourists to take and travel in depth.

  • The parking facilities are complete, including the Yongle Market underground parking lot and the Tacheng Park parking lot, which are convenient for self-driving tourists.

The history and culture of Dihua Street

Dihua Street is home to Taiwan's traditional Chinese medicine and dried goods markets. Old Western-style buildings dot the streetscape, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. During festivals like the Lunar New Year, the street transforms into a shopping street, bustling with crowds and bustling with traditional and modern vendors. It's also home to a vibrant collection of cultural and creative shops, cafes, and handmade crafts, blending history and modern trends to create a unique tourist attraction.

Must-try delicacies and special snacks

  • Lin Hefa Oil Rice at Yongle Market : Classic Taiwanese oil rice, full of the umami flavor of mushrooms, served with chicken legs and braised eggs. The portion is generous and the old-fashioned flavor is perfect.

  • Honey Peanut Candy : An old street dessert, the peanuts are crispy, sweet but not greasy, and represent the nostalgic taste of Taiwan.

  • Medicinal Tea and Herb Shop : Purchase Chinese medicinal herbs or try authentic health teas and experience Taiwan's traditional health culture.

  • Traditional pastries and Taiwanese pancakes : Various old-fashioned pastries, crispy, sweet, and full of nostalgic flavor.

  • Specialty cafes and hipster shops : the modern atmosphere is combined with the style of the old street, suitable for leisure and check-in.

Night Market Atmosphere and Travel Tips

While Dihua Street lacks the dense crowds of vendors found in larger night markets, it's brightly lit at night, with some businesses extending their hours to offer snacks and specialty drinks. This area is ideal for a leisurely stroll and savoring, perfect for travelers who enjoy both history, culture, and culinary exploration. Walking through these historic streets and alleys is like stepping back in time, immersing yourself in the Taiwanese spirit.

Editor's perspective

I believe Dihua Street is a true cultural treasure trove of Taipei's ancient city. Whether you're shopping for New Year's goods at classic shops or trying unique snacks, the entire street is filled with surprises. Especially in autumn and winter, warm yourself with herbal teas or linger in hipster cafes. With its fusion of food and culture, it's a must-see for any in-depth Taipei trip!

Besides the food, the Dadaocheng Night Market on Dihua Street offers an in-depth experience of Taiwan's history and modernity. Don't miss this precious old street during your trip to Taipei! 🎎🍵

Planning a complete itinerary for the Dadaocheng (Dihua Street) Night Market requires balancing historical and cultural experiences with diverse culinary offerings. Here's a step-by-step guide that emphasizes both culture and cuisine, ensuring you're fully entertained and satisfied! 🛤️🍢

A complete itinerary for shopping and eating at Dadaocheng Night Market

Starting point: Exit Daqiaotou or Beimen MRT Station

Starting from Exit 1 of Daqiaotou MRT Station, walk south along the northern section of Dihua Street to experience the atmosphere of old Taipei. The early section is full of spice, Chinese herbal medicine, and dry goods stores, making it a great place to buy local specialties and health teas.

First stop: Yongle Market and old shop exploration

  • First, visit Yongle Market, visit Lin Hefa Oil Rice and traditional pastry shops, and try authentic oil rice, peanut candy and other traditional flavors.

  • Visit the herbal medicine store to experience Taiwan's traditional herbal medicine culture and learn about Chinese medicine health preservation.

Second stop: Dihua Street middle section food area

  • Visit famous snack stalls such as honey peanut candy, sesame candy, dried meat and other sweet and savory delicacies.

  • Try traditional pancakes and Taiwanese snacks, accompanied by a warming cup of herbal tea.

Third stop: South section cultural and creative and coffee break

  • Stop at the cultural and creative market, handmade boutiques, and specialty cafes to enjoy the new vitality of the old street.

  • Take a break, enjoy a cup of fragrant hand-poured coffee, and experience the fusion of Taipei's history and creativity.

End point: Night view walk near Pier Park

  • Walk along the Keelung Riverside Promenade to Dadaocheng Wharf and enjoy the night view of the river and the bridge lights.

  • You can choose to take a boat to enjoy the night view, which is a perfect end to your shopping and dining trip.

Editor's Tips

  • During the Lunar New Year holidays, Dadaocheng New Year Market is extremely popular, so plan your time in advance to avoid peak hours.

  • Bring cash in Taiwan dollars, as some stalls do not accept electronic payments.

  • Take it easy on the walk, wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared to slowly savor every bite of Taipei's century-old culture.

  • Pay attention to sun protection and rain protection. The weather is changeable, so prepare rain gear.

Plan your route and time well, and you can deeply experience Taipei's traditional market culture at Dadaocheng Night Market. From authentic snacks to cultural and creative lifestyle, every step is filled with historical stories and delicious enjoyment. You will have a great time and eat to your heart's content!

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